What Punishment Will Patrick Mahomes Get for Taunting Brian Branch? NFL Fine Looms After Chiefs-Lions Game

Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes could be hit with a significant fine after allegedly taunting Detroit Lions safety Brian Branch during their Week 6 matchup on Sunday, October 12, 2025. The incident, which took place late in the second quarter, is now drawing scrutiny from NFL officials and could cost Mahomes thousands of dollars under the league’s anti-taunting rules.

The Chiefs beat the Lions 30-17 at Arrowhead Stadium, but Mahomes’ actions after scoring a touchdown have overshadowed the on-field performance. As per reports, the three-time Super Bowl champion is likely facing disciplinary action for his behavior.

Patrick Mahomes Faces Possible Fine for Taunting Branch

According to Newsweek and multiple NFL insiders, Mahomes is expected to be fined for violating Rule 12, Section 3, Article 1 of the NFL rulebook, which prohibits “baiting or taunting acts or words that may engender ill will between teams.” The rule is strictly enforced to maintain sportsmanship and prevent escalating tensions on the field.

The controversy stems from a moment near the end of the second quarter when Mahomes capped off a 55-yard drive with a one-yard rushing touchdown. Immediately after crossing into the end zone, Mahomes appeared to direct a series of gestures toward Brian Branch, including pointing in his direction, dropping the ball deliberately, pretending to wipe his jersey, and flexing his bicep.

Officials on the field did not penalize Mahomes during the game, but the NFL routinely reviews such incidents after the fact. If the league determines that Mahomes’ actions constituted taunting, he could face a fine of $11,593 for a first offense or $17,389 for a second offense. These amounts are part of the NFL’s standardized discipline schedule for unsportsmanlike conduct.

This potential fine would not be Mahomes’ first brush with league discipline. While he has largely maintained a clean record, the NFL has penalized several star players in recent seasons for similar acts, reinforcing the message that taunting will not be tolerated — even from marquee names.

Fallout and Broader Implications for Mahomes and the Chiefs

The incident has stirred debate among fans and analysts, especially given the heated nature of Sunday’s game. Tensions boiled over again after the final whistle, when Brian Branch was involved in a post-game scuffle with Chiefs wide receiver JuJu Smith-Schuster. The altercation, which required Lions head coach Dan Campbell to intervene, has drawn additional attention to the fiery matchup.

If Mahomes is fined, it will likely have little financial impact on him personally — the Chiefs star earns over $50 million annually. However, such a move could dent his reputation for composure and leadership, traits he’s long been praised for. It may also influence how referees scrutinize his behavior in future games.

The NFL’s stance on taunting has tightened in recent years as part of a broader push to uphold sportsmanship and prevent conflicts on the field. Even minor gestures deemed disrespectful can now result in fines or, in repeat cases, suspensions. That means Mahomes, as one of the league’s most high-profile players, is under even greater scrutiny.

As the NFL reviews the footage from Sunday’s game, all eyes are on whether Patrick Mahomes will face financial consequences for his actions. Regardless of the outcome, the incident underscores the league’s firm stance against taunting and the heightened expectations placed on its biggest stars.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: What punishment will Patrick Mahomes get for taunting?

He could be fined $11,593 for a first offense or $17,389 for a second offense under the NFL’s taunting rules.

Q2: What did Patrick Mahomes do to Brian Branch?

After a touchdown, Mahomes pointed at Branch, dropped the ball, pretended to wipe his jersey, and flexed his bicep — gestures interpreted as taunting.

Q3: Was Mahomes penalized during the game?

No, officials did not flag him during the game, but the NFL often issues fines after reviewing game footage.

Q4: Could this affect Mahomes’ reputation?

While the fine would be minor financially, it could impact how fans and referees view his on-field demeanor moving forward.

Q5: What are the NFL rules on taunting?

Rule 12, Section 3, Article 1 prohibits baiting or taunting acts or words that may create ill will between teams and imposes fines for violations.